Description

These crispy smashed potatoes are an easy, foolproof side dish featuring golden, craggy edges and a fluffy interior, topped with a savory garlic herb butter.

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds Russet potatoes
Water (enough for boiling)
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and black pepper
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
6 cloves garlic (minced)
¼ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Scrub potatoes clean and cut into halves or quarters to ensure uniform size.
Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water by an inch, and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain potatoes well and let them sit in a colander for 5 minutes to dry out excess moisture.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place potatoes cut-side up on the sheet and gently press down with a heavy-bottomed glass to flatten to about ½ inch thick.
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder until smooth.
Brush the garlic herb butter generously over the smashed potatoes, ensuring it gets into the cracks.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
Remove from oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes, sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure potatoes are dry before smashing to maximize crispiness. Use room temperature butter for the herb mixture. Do not crowd the pan to prevent steaming. For leftovers, reheat in an air fryer or oven to maintain crunch; avoid microwaving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 smashed potato hal
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 150
Fat: 9
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 22
Fiber: 2
Protein: 3

Keywords: smashed potatoes, garlic herb butter, crispy potatoes, side dish, easy recipe, oven roasted potatoes, comfort food